Parker determined to fight for his place in Tottenham team

The England international reveals his frustration as his recovery from Achilles surgery took longer than anticipated and is adamant he can get back into top form

Tottenham midfielder Scott Parker is determined to win his place back in the Spurs’ side after missing the start of the season with an Achilles injury.

The 32-year-old is yet to start for Andre Villas-Boas’ side in this campaign since his return from the sidelines in December due to the form of Sandro and Mousa Dembele.

Parker admits he endured a frustrating five months out of first-team action and is now focused on regaining match fitness to challenge for his place in the side once again.

He told The Sun: “When you’re out injured, it’s the worst time you can have as a footballer.

“I didn’t expect to be out for as long as I was. But I always thought I’d get back to where I need to be and it’s about hard work now.

“It’s obviously been a while since I have been involved, so the last few weeks have been pleasing, getting back amongst it. It was a bad injury but I never thought I wouldn’t come back from it. My Achilles is fine now. I just need to get match fit.”

The England international also feels Spurs must keep performing and concentrating on their own performances in the race for the Champions League places.

He added: “The league is tight. I think all we need to do is keep worrying about ourselves.”